7-day Southern Ethiopia Omo Valley Cultural Tour 7 days

Day 1: Addis Ababa City Tour

After breakfast, begin a guided city tour of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia's capital and largest city. Visit the National Museum, where the famous fossil Lucy is displayed, as well as Holy Trinity Cathedral and the Ethnological Museum. Later, explore Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, before returning to your hotel. Overnight stay at Capital Hotel and Spa.

Day 2: Addis Ababa – Ziway – Abijatta-Shalla National Park

In the morning, drive south through the Ethiopian Rift Valley to the lakeside town of Ziway. Continue to Abijatta-Shalla National Park, famous for its soda lakes and large populations of flamingos and other water birds. Enjoy views of the lakes and wildlife such as gazelles and warthogs before overnight in Ziway or nearby Hawassa. Overnight stay at Hija resort.

Day 3: Hawassa – Arba Minch

Early in the morning, visit the lakeshore of Hawassa to see the famous Colobus monkeys and the local fish market. After breakfast, drive to Arba Minch through the scenic landscapes of southern Ethiopia. Upon arrival, visit the Dorze village where you will learn about their unique culture and see their traditional bamboo houses. Overnight stay at Wubete hotel.

Day 4: Arba Minch – Lake Chamo – Konso

In the morning, take a boat trip on Lake Chamo to see large Nile crocodiles, hippos, and many bird species. After the excursion, drive south toward Konso through beautiful highland scenery. Visit the traditional Konso villages, famous for their terraced agriculture and unique cultural traditions. Overnight stay at Kanta lodge.

Day 5: Konso – Turmi – Visit Bena Tribe and Hamer Tribe

Today you will drive from Konso to Turmi, the cultural centre of the Hamer people. On the way, you will visit villages of the Bena tribe and learn about their traditions and daily life. Later, explore nearby Hamer villages, known for their colourful clothing, hairstyles, and traditional dances. Overnight stay at Emerald Lodge.

Day 6: Turmi – Visit Karo Tribe and Dassanech Tribe

In the morning, drive to the Omo River to visit the Karo tribe, famous for their decorative body painting and artistic traditions. Continue the journey to the Dassanech villages located near the lower Omo River. During the visit, you will learn about their unique lifestyle and cultural practices. Overnight stay at Emerald Lodge.

Day 7: Jinka – Visit Mursi Tribe – Fly to Addis Ababa

After breakfast, drive to Mago National Park to visit the Mursi tribe, known for the traditional lip plates worn by women. Spend time learning about their culture and photographing their unique traditions. Later, return to Jinka Airport and take a flight back to Addis Ababa, where the tour ends.